2008/09 Phoenix Coyotes Season Preview

Along with Chicago, Phoenix is a young exciting team and I think they’ll create a lot of noise in both the division and conference this year.

Upfront Phoenix has a very underrated and skilled group. Peter Mueller, Martin Hanzal and Kyle Turris lead the charge of young skilled forwards. Shane Doan provides the total package of scoring, toughness and leadership and Olli Jokinen is the #1 center they’ve been looking for for a while. Mikkel Boedker is a bit of a long shot to make the team, but watching him in Kitchener last year I wouldn’t be at all surprised to see him make it and even end up playing on the 2nd line.

As much as I like this team, their weak spot is definitely on defence were they’ll be leaning on Ed Jovanovski and Derek Morris. Zbynek Michalek will get more ice time and look to improve from last year and Kurt Sauer brings some needed toughness. Unknown young defencemen Keith Yandle and Matt Jones will try to learn everything they can from Morris and Jovanovski and will look to improve as the season goes on.

Phoenix probably has the most underrated goaltender in the league with Ilya Bryzgalov who played great when he came over from Anaheim. Mikael Tellqvist provides solid play from the backup.

They have young talented forwards and a very good goaltender but their lack up depth, especially on defence, could hurt their chances for a playoff spot.